BA <oddstray@ODDSTRAY.COM> posed the subject question.

Having been "beared" once in the Sierras I've researched this a bit. The bears learn early what coolers are and if they are outside they'll get em open. The bear boxes at some campgrounds are good but the bears have learned how to open some of them also. 

Short of hanging food from a tree limb 15' off the ground I prefer putting the coolers inside the Westy and covering them with a tarp or blanket for visual and odor containment - has worked for us for several years. They've never hurt our camp stoves or box wine left on the table. 

Pete 
80 Westy